Uber’s new app updates include a load of changes which the cab ordering firm says it has introduced after consultation with drivers.

Customers will be able to tip, while there are new charges for keeping the cabbies waiting or cancelling a ride.

Here’s what’s new with Uber.

New waiting time charges

If you like to keep your Uber driver waiting after they arrive then it’ll start to cost you.

From Tuesday, August 22, customers will have two minutes to get into the car after it arrives, after then they will be charged a 20p-a-minute waiting charge on the basic Uber service, with higher fees for the XL, EXEC and LUX cabs.

The firm’s UK regional general manager Jo Bertram said: “Drivers’ time is valuable and every minute spent waiting for a rider means less time driving and making money.

“That’s why - from two minutes after the driver arrives at the pick-up point - riders will pay 20p for every further minute they keep their driver waiting.”

You will only have two minutes to cancel an Uber ride

Currently, Uber does not penalise customers who cancel their car within five minutes of ordering. But soon customers will have to cancel within two minutes of confirming the ride, otherwise they will face a fine.

“Following feedback we feel this is too long as drivers are well on their way to the pick-up point and have already invested time and fuel,” Ms Bertram said

“That’s why we’re reducing the rider cancellation time so if a rider cancels two minutes after being allocated a car they will now pay the cancellation fee - though this won’t apply if a driver is running five minutes behind the original ETA (estimated time of arrival).”

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You will be able to tip drivers

Uber is introducing a tip function so customers can reward drivers and UberEATS delivery staff who go the extra mile.

The option will appear in the app after your ride finishes or food is delivered.

Uber says it has brought in the tip function after a consultation with with employees.

Uber drivers will be able to quickly decline rides

The app update will include a “no thanks” button which drivers can use to deny a requested trip. Uber says this will cut waiting times, as the journey will be offered to another driver quicker.

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Uber says it is working to improve conditions for its drivers

The company says the app changes are proof it is listening to its drivers, after criticism about the lack of worker rights ‘gig economy’ Uber employees have.

“Over the last 12 months we’ve hosted hundreds of events and spoken to thousands of drivers on the phone, in the office and at roundtable discussions,” Ms Bertram added.

“While drivers have told us they love the freedom of being their own boss, we’ve also clearly heard that we need to make improvements.

“As a direct result of this feedback we have already made a number of big changes. In February we announced a series of initiatives to help drivers make the most out of using the app and two months later we invested in discounted illness and injury cover with IPSE (Association of Independent Professionals & the Self-Employed) for drivers who want it.”